My recent visit to Nepal with the Bangladesh Research Society was more than just an academic trip; it was a journey of exploration, learning, and a deep connection with nature and the communities. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Nepal offers a unique blend of diverse geography, rich environmental heritage, and vibrant culture, making it an ideal setting for field-based research.
A Living Geography Classroom
From the soaring peaks of the Annapurna Range to the low-lying Terai plains, Nepal’s geographical diversity amazed me at every turn. Walking through Nepal’s varied terrain felt like stepping into a living textbook. We witnessed first-hand the interactions between people and their environment, how topography influences settlement patterns, how communities adapt to climate risks, and how ecological zones shift drastically within a few kilometers.
One thing that elevated our experience was the weather itself; Nepal’s late May climate struck a perfect balance. Clear skies, crisp mountain air in the mornings, and mild temperatures throughout the day created an ideal atmosphere for both exploration and focused fieldwork. Whether hiking near Pokhara or walking through the streets of Kathmandu, the gentle breeze and comfortable climate made our journey not just informative but deeply enjoyable.
Climate Resilience & Glacial Retreat
Nepal’s Himalayan glaciers are retreating at an alarming rate, with studies indicating a 65% acceleration in melt between 2011 and 2020 compared to the previous decade. This rapid glacial loss threatens freshwater supplies and agriculture and increases the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). Notably, the Yala Glacier has shrunk significantly, prompting Nepal to hold a symbolic “funeral” to raise awareness about the impacts of climate change. In response, Nepal hosted the “Climate Change, Mountains, and the Future of Humanity” conference in Kathmandu, emphasizing the global significance of protecting mountain ecosystems.
Earthquake-Resistant Housing & Community-Led Reconstruction
Following the devastating 2015 earthquake, Nepal has prioritized the reconstruction of earthquake-resistant buildings. Approximately 80% of damaged structures have been rebuilt, with 95% of the work completed in rural areas. The government has implemented training programs for local masons in Karnali Province to promote resilient building practices. However, challenges persist. In regions like Rukum West, some residents are rebuilding without adhering to building codes due to delays and high costs associated with obtaining approvals, which may compromise the structural safety of their homes.
Waste Management Innovations in Urban Nepal
Urban centers such as Pokhara and Dhulikhel are pioneering waste management initiatives. Efforts include source segregation, community awareness campaigns, and composting at household and ward levels. Innovatively, Pokhara has begun constructing roads using recycled plastic waste, addressing both infrastructure needs and plastic pollution.
Transboundary Collaboration & Youth Engagement
Recognizing the shared environmental challenges in the region, Nepali and Bangladeshi students and researchers have initiated collaborative discussions focusing on climate change adaptation and youth-led action. These exchanges aim to develop joint research proposals, knowledge-sharing platforms, and future workshops, fostering regional cooperation in addressing environmental issues.
Figure 1:Embassy of Bangladesh, Kathmandu
Promoting Gender-Inclusive Economic Participation for National Resilience
During our visit to Nepal, we were inspired by the visible and equal participation of both men and women in the national economy. From women-led tourism ventures and small businesses in Pokhara to female professionals in academia, government, and community development in Kathmandu, gender-inclusive engagement is reshaping the economic landscape. This active involvement not only empowers individuals but also contributes to stronger community resilience, disaster preparedness, and sustainable development. Nepal’s approach demonstrates that genuine progress occurs when all genders are afforded equal opportunities to contribute socially, economically, and institutionally to national growth.
Engaging with Communities and Scholars
A core highlight of the International Youth Research Camp 2025 in Nepal was the opportunity to engage with leading institutions and local scholars through collaborative meetings and academic exchanges. In Pokhara, we partnered with the Pokhara Research Centre in a youth seminar on community-based environmental initiatives and sustainable tourism. At Kathmandu University, Dhulikhel, discussions with the Global Engagement Division and the Department of Geomatics Engineering opened avenues for future academic collaboration and joint research in disaster management and environmental resilience.
Figure 2: ACE Institute of Management
Figure 3: Pokhara Research Centre
A vital engagement took place at the National Youth Council of Nepal, where Bangladeshi and Nepali youth researchers shared project ideas and agreed to initiate a Regional Youth Research Alliance focusing on environmental justice and sustainable development. Our research presentations at the Embassy of Bangladesh in Kathmandu further strengthened diplomatic and academic ties between the two countries.
These programs were made possible through the dedicated coordination of our host organization, the International Development Institute (IDI), Nepal, which also conducted a reflective closing session at the ACE College of Management, affiliated with Pokhara University. Together, these collaborative meetings enriched our understanding of regional environmental challenges and fostered long-term partnerships for youth-led research and action.
Cultural Immersion in a Natural Setting
Nepal’s culture is deeply intertwined with its geography, a connection we experienced throughout our journey. From sacred rivers and ancient monasteries to terraced farmlands and forest shrines, every landscape reflected a harmonious blend of nature, tradition, and spirituality. The warmth and hospitality of the Nepali people added a special dimension to our visit, whether in bustling cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara or tranquil hill villages.
Figure 4: National Youth Council
Figure 5: Bangladesh- Nepal Friendship Run
A particularly memorable moment came during our seminar at the National Youth Council of Nepal, where our delegation of 19 young researchers was warmly welcomed with Khadas, ceremonial silk scarves symbolizing respect and good fortune. This thoughtful gesture set the tone for dynamic discussions on joint initiatives between Bangladeshi and Nepali youth, capturing the spirit of friendship, cultural exchange, and mutual respect that defined our entire experience in Nepal.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Nepal through the lens of geography, environment, and research expanded my worldview. It reminded me that environmental issues are intensely local, and solutions must be rooted in both science and cultural context. I’m grateful to my research society and the people of Nepal for making this journey so impactful. This experience reaffirmed my commitment to using research not just for knowledge creation but for meaningful change. The seeds of collaboration planted during this journey through seminars, dialogues, and shared visions have inspired us to work across borders for a more resilient and sustainable South Asia.
In conclusion, our research experience in Nepal reaffirmed that environmental issues are deeply personal, social, and cultural matters interwoven with the rhythms of daily life. The country’s dynamic landscapes, from fragile Himalayan glaciers to bustling urban centers, provided a living classroom where theoretical knowledge met real-world challenges. Observing how communities harness traditional wisdom alongside modern innovations highlighted the indispensable role of local knowledge and collaboration in fostering resilience. Nepal’s initiatives in earthquake-resilient housing, community forestry, and grassroots waste management have demonstrated how adversity can inspire practical and sustainable solutions. These experiences not only enriched our academic perspectives but also strengthened our emotional connection to environmental stewardship and disaster management. Favorable field conditions and meaningful exchanges with local stakeholders further enhanced the quality and impact of our work.
The lessons drawn from Nepal, in community-led resilience, adaptive design, and transboundary collaboration, offer valuable, replicable models for South Asia and beyond. As students and future practitioners, these insights will shape how we approach environmental challenges at home, reminding us that sustainable progress grows strongest when rooted in community action and shared responsibility.
‘’In the heart of the Himalayas, we discovered that the greatest lessons aren’t found in textbooks, but in the resilience of communities, the wisdom of traditions, and the power of youth-led collaboration to shape a sustainable future.’’
